Girls First Bike????

Girls...listen to DRZX7RR.  

Now, sporty_chic.  At your height you shouldn't have to worry about being able to ride any of the 600cc or below bikes.  So all you need to do is find a bike you're comfortable with and gain some confidence on it.  As for the suggestion of a Ninja 250, I think that'd probably be the best choice.  The good thing is that they retain their value very well.  They don't cost much and you can usually resell them after a few months to a year after you buy it without being out of pocket very much money.  It's almost like you got to rent a motorcycle for a year.  So, for a small fee you get to ride on a bike for a year and get a lot of experience and then still be able to buy a larger displacement bike when you're done.

streetbikechick, I have a very short friend of mine that I ride with.  She actually got a Buell Blast for her first bike.  I just thought I'd throw that suggestion out there.  

hello! i just came across your question and would like to comment. i am 5'1, 115 lbs. throwing away everyone's opinion that i was too small to ride a 600cc bike, i purchased a '04 cbr600rr and lowered it 3 inches front and back. it is NOT too much to handle for a first bike, even for someone my size. my best friend had an '08 ninja 250 and ended up getting rid of it after 2 months, it was not practical for highway riding. don't waste your money on one. at your size and height, you will have NO problem on a 600, as long as you take the class and learn some basic riding skills. i have since upgraded to a gsxr 750, and even that is manageable.  good luck and have fun!  

Different strokes for different folks. But take that safety course.